How To Build a Rain Barrel for CHEAP

Step by step instruction on how to make the cheapest and easiest rain barrel. Learn as I make it in real time. You'll be able to find a food-grade barrel in your area and make one of these for real cheap. The parts are available at hardware and irrigation stores.

Step 1: Buy a food grade barrel or container.
Step 2: Modify the lid so water can be diverted into the barrel. Include filter, like window screen.
Step 3: Drill a 3/4" hole near the bottom with a spade bit.
Step 4: Thread a 1/2" sediment faucet into the barrel. Don't overtighten.
Step 5: Install an overflow.
Step 6: Add rain water.

Rainbarrels are perfect for urban survival, since water would be THE most challenging resource in a time of crisis. They're also great for gardens and lawns (though you can't eat a lawn). Plants prefer harvested rain water over cold, chlorinated hose water. Save money and grow more food by collecting nature's bounty.

It's not uncommon for one of these barrels to fill in under 15 minutes. I've got four on one downspout and they all fill in a "good" rain. The best way I've found to connect them is at the bottom, with additional taps. That way they all fill at the same rate and can all be drained from one outlet.

Some people have made used harvested rain water for include solar showers, flushing toilets, power washers, drinking and cooking, drip irrigation, gardens, green houses (greenhouses), orchards, livestock (cows, horses, goats, pigs), ponds, hot tubs, pools, washing cars, compost tea, and more.